Guanajuato state must be firmly planted in your Mexico journey listing. Blessed with pure magnificence, Spanish colonial cities, cultural and historic festivals, and implausible buying, Guanajuato has just a little one thing for everybody.
Add to it the truth that there are greater than 25 wineries within the state and also you’ll in all probability need to transfer right here!
In Mexico, wine isn’t as wanted as tequila, beer, or mezcal, however its consumption is on the rise and wine ingesting is gaining recognition.
In Guanajuato, the Ruta del Vino (Wine Route) isn’t as effectively established because the Valle de Guadalupe on the Baja Peninsula, however that’s a part of its attraction.
Right here, you may anticipate a extra personalised expertise, boutique wineries, and extra bang in your buck.
Some small meals pairings and a tour of the vineyard and vineyards are sometimes included within the tasting worth — one thing that’s onerous to come by in different wine areas.
We just lately spent just a few weeks in Guanajuato and completely cherished it.
After visiting Guanajuato Metropolis, Dolores Hidalgo, La Gruta sizzling springs, and town of San Miguel de Allende, we have been trying ahead to delving deeper into Guanajuato’s meals and wine scene.
We sipped, swirled, and sampled our manner across the state whereas celebrating my birthday in model.
After experiencing this portion of the El Bajío wine area, I’ve put collectively this information visiting the most effective Eight wineries in Guanajuato to enable you to plan your journey.
Notice: Guanajuato is the title of the state, however to make it complicated, Guanajuato Metropolis is the capital of the state!
About Guanajuato Wines
Because it solely dates again to the late 1990s / early 2000s, fashionable winemaking in Guanajuato is a reasonably new follow. However, due to its excessive altitude (6,500 toes above sea degree), cool evenings, and sizzling days, the area is conducive to grape rising.
One of many extra distinctive features of the wineries in Guanajuato is that winemakers right here are attempting to follow “previous world” methods. This implies no components or pesticides, low intervention, and a concentrate on offering probably the most pure wine attainable.
As a client, natural wine means fewer complications and hangovers after ingesting!
As a result of Guanajuato is an up-and-coming wine area, the winemakers are nonetheless testing completely different grape varietals and seeing which of them work greatest with the land, and which grape blends praise spicy Mexican meals.
Based mostly on what we sampled throughout our travels right here, I’d say that the Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Tempranillo are winners.
The Guanajuato Wine Route
The official Ruta del Vino stretches from the western aspect of Dolores Hidalgo to the japanese aspect of San Miguel de Allende, nonetheless, yow will discover many vineyards and wineries scattered throughout the state of Guanajuato.
We made our manner in the direction of the historic metropolis of Dolores Hidalgo and past, east in the direction of Queretaro state, and west to Guanajuato metropolis the place we discovered quite a few wineries, eating places, and vineyards.
Sadly, we weren’t in a position to go to the wineries within the south of the state…however, that simply means we’ve saved one thing for subsequent time.
Should-Go to Wineries in Guanajuato
It doesn’t get significantly better than having fun with a implausible meal surrounded by vines whereas sipping on premium crimson wines. After some analysis and dialogue, we selected our wine route — which we unfold out over the course of two days.
Right here’s my listing of the must-visit wineries that make nice day journeys, or weekends away from anyplace in Guanajuato.
1. Dos Búhos
For those who’re inquisitive about 100% licensed natural wines, you’ll discover them right here at Dos Búhos (that means “two owls”).
As we handed by way of the white archways and alongside rose bushes, a towering mesquite tree with small tables and chairs beneath its branches greeted us within the distance.
Tender jazz music was taking part in on the audio system, setting the scene for our first wine tasting of the day.
Edgar launched himself because the sommelier and we have been led on a journey by way of winemaking at Dos Búhos whereas pairing every glass with a chew from the platter of snacks we have been supplied.
Not solely have been the premium reds implausible (particularly, the Aglianico and Cabernet Franc), however we loved chatting with Edgar about how a lot he loves his job — he’s turned his ardour right into a profession, which we predict is implausible. He additionally handwrites the date and grape varietal on each label, which provides every bottle a pleasant private contact.
A tasting of 5 wines right here prices 650 pesos ($33) per particular person or 900 pesos ($45) for premium wines with a small pairing. You’ll be able to contact Dos Búhos on WhatsApp at +524151247583 to make a reservation.
2. Rancho Toyan
For wow issue, Rancho Toyan is a must-visit vineyard.
As we pulled up to the doorway, three lion statues greeted us. That’s uncommon, we thought. However, as we’d quickly study, “uncommon” was par for the course right here!
We continued strolling underneath the archway to enter the property which was guarded by gargoyles, previous just a few statues of monks, earlier than assembly up with Salvador, our wine information.
Descending down 14 meters into the wine cellar and tasting room, we began to discover a sample. Right here, lining the pathway and defending the cellar have been monks illuminated by a really dim, bluish gentle.
At Rancho Toyan, each pathway above and under floor appeared to be guarded by lions, monks, or gargoyles — this was a really fascinating place!
I received’t give all of it away, however Salvador knowledgeable us that the proprietor (who’s from Mexico Metropolis) wished a medieval theme to the vineyard because it was simpler to have wine than water again in these days. Plus, when the Spanish got here to Mexico they introduced monks with them.
So, naturally, all of it ties in.
The entire place is oozing in mythology and symbology and it’s an amazing tour. A tasting of 5 wines right here prices 800 pesos ($40) per particular person, together with a tour of the cellar and a small plate of meats for pairing.
In step with the quirkiness of the vineyard, you may solely buy wines onsite, they aren’t offered in any shops. Be taught extra right here and discover Rancho Toyan on the map right here.
3. Viñedo Los Arcángeles (Winery Archangels)
Mexican-owned Winery Archangels provides guests quite a few experiences. From wine tastings, beer samplings, and cellar excursions, to picnics within the vineyards, outside cinema, and tenting underneath the celebrities — there actually is one thing for everybody right here!
Added to the entire actions above, this can be a stunning vineyard which you can truly keep at.
Viñedo Los Arcángeles provides three labels: Cabernet Sauvignon, Savignon Blanc and a Cabernet Savignon – Merlot mix.
The Cabernet Sauvignon is dry, medium-bold, and never too acidic, whereas the Sauvignon Blanc provides dried fruit flavours with oaky notes.
Be taught extra about Viñedo Los Arcángeles on their web site and discover them on the map right here. To make a reservation and to discover out the most recent tour and tasting costs, contact them by e-mail: vinedolosarcangeles@gmail.com or cellphone: +525518834801.
4. La Santisima Trinidad
Not solely are the wines tasty and the Tuscan-style property beautiful, however the tour itself is de facto fascinating.
La Santisima Trinidad is a part of a gaggle that features Viñedos San Lucas and Viñedos San Francisco. Collectively, these three locations provide boutique resort stays, eating places, vineyards, wine tastings, and olive oil and lavender manufacturing.
With a gaggle of different travellers and wine lovers, we explored the small wine cellar at La Santisima Trinidad and discovered about how lavender is processed onsite.
On the finish of the property tour, we sat down at an extended desk open air to pattern three wines, whereas completely pairing every sip with a chew of meals and discussing tasting notes with the man wine lovers.
We additionally visited the sister property at Viñedos San Lucas for lunch and loved a meal of grilled rooster and shrimp whereas gazing out on the winery. It’s a stupendous setting for a meal.
The value of a vineyard tour with tasting is 690 pesos ($35) together with Three wines, a tour, and a small cheese pairing.
Be taught extra about La Santisima Trinidad right here and call them on WhatsApp at +524181071761 to make a reservation. And, yow will discover the vineyard right here on the map.
5. Tres Raices
That means “Three Roots” to honour the proprietor’s three kids, Tres Raices is a stupendous, fashionable vineyard.
Not solely are you able to dine on the implausible restaurant, wander by way of the vineyards and revel in a tour of the cellar, however when you wished to indulge just a little bit extra, you can spend the evening right here in one of many beautiful villas with a shared pool.
Tres Raices opened in 2015, with their oldest classic from 2017. As we walked round with our wine information Mauricio, we have been in awe of the pure fantastic thing about the property, the grand entranceway, and the stylish eating space.
After gawking on the expansive vineyards from the small commentary tower, the gorgeous 600-year-old wood door from India, the onyx decor, and the attractive wine cellar, it was time to truly pattern the wine.
We opted for the “full-bodied wine tasting” which included 5 oaked wines — Four reds and 1 white.
Sadly, we weren’t in a position to style the Gran Reserva with out buying the entire bottle (which we didn’t do as we already had too many wine bottles in our suitcases!), however the wines we did attempt have been fairly clean and flavourful.
This tasting value 500 pesos ($25) every. For 200 pesos extra ($10), you may be part of the property tour as we did.
When you’ve got an opportunity, I like to recommend consuming right here as effectively on the Terruño Restaurant. Attempt the Wagyu sliders (small burgers) and the fettucini with salmon and burrata. You’ll be able to thank me later!
Contact Tres Raices by WhatsApp: +524151135250, go to their web site and discover them on Google Maps.
6. Hacienda San José Lavista
We didn’t hear about this vineyard till our final couple of days in Guanajuato and I’m so glad we didn’t miss it.
As quickly as we arrived on the entrance, we have been blown away by the beautiful adobe-built, earth-tone buildings and the 10 hectares they occupied.
On the property, there’s the proprietor’s residence, a chapel, a villa for hire, and a restaurant with a wine cellar. The restaurant is surrounded by vineyards and a small lake, with rolling hills within the distance…oh ya, this can be a gorgeous spot for a meal!
We have been right here at San José Lavista to pattern the wines and revel in a meal with a view, however many individuals truly get married at this romantic venue. With a superbly picturesque chapel surrounded by vines, I can undoubtedly see the attraction.
We have been in a position to pattern just a few sips of the wines on provide earlier than shopping for a bottle to take pleasure in with lunch. I like to recommend the 2017 Merlot and the 2017 Malbec. Each have been nice, however the dry Merlot was the winner with oaky flavour and notes of dried fruit.
The wines have been daring and full-bodied and the meals at Hacienda San José Lavista was additionally implausible. Guanajuato-born Chef José Francisco González runs the kitchen right here and our meal didn’t disappoint.
Attempt the salad with pistachio dressing and aged goat cheese, the ravioli with water buffalo ragu, and the baked rooster breast with almond and roasted greens. We devoured and loved every chew.
When you’ve got time, I like to recommend visiting the wine cellar after your meal and wandering across the vineyards.
Contact the hacienda on WhatsApp: +524151264595 or cellphone: +524151559108 ext 132, or you may ship them an e-mail to make a reservation: administracion@restaurantetarragon.com.
7. Cuna de Tierra
Established in 1993, that is the oldest vineyard in Guanajuato. Whereas we had excessive hopes for our go to, we have been a bit letdown. However, since wine tasting is very subjective, I nonetheless suppose Cuna de Tierra ought to make the listing.
First, let me say that the vineyard and winery itself are gorgeous and the service was nice. We additionally noticed many teams of associates and households having fun with a meal and bottles of wine on the outside restaurant.
As we arrived at our completely positioned desk for 2 proper alongside the Malbec grapes, I couldn’t wait to do the tasting. After some rationalization of every bottle from George the sommelier, we clinked glasses and took our first sips.
With many awards underneath their belts, this highly-rated vineyard produces 120,000 bottles of wine annually, so that they’re undoubtedly doing one thing proper!
Sadly, the wines at Cuna de Tierra simply weren’t to our liking and we discovered them to be a bit too astringent. Both manner, it’s a stunning setting and an amazing place to take pleasure in a winery tour and lunch.
Discover Cuna de Tierra on the map right here and study extra right here. Or, contact them by e-mail: enoexperiencias@cunadetierra.com.mx or cellphone: +524186880078.
8. Bernat
This family-run property is smaller than the wineries listed above. A lot so, that you just’ll be given the wine tour and tasting by the proprietor, Alvaro, himself! That’s the enjoyment of a boutique vineyard in Guanajuato.
Right here at Bernat, you may participate in a wine tasting and tour of the vineyards and cellar, or when you plan to go to the world in the course of the harvest (August – October), you may play winemaker for a day and create your individual bottle of wine.
Bernat provides simply three labels, one white (a minerally mix of Viognier and Chardonnay) and two reds (Grenache and a mix of Syrah, Malbec, and Merlot).
Be taught extra about Bernat on their web site and call them by e-mail: bernatvinicola@gmail.com or cellphone: +525539547344. Discover Bernat on the map right here.
How to Go to the Wineries in Guanajuato
Earlier than you set off to take pleasure in a wine-filled day, be sure you name forward to every of the wineries to make a reservation. You’ll need to make sure the wineries are literally open, and that you just get a spot on the tasting and tour.
A lot of the wineries are solely open just a few days per week. And, English-speaking guides and the sommeliers don’t work every single day. To keep away from disappointment, contact them forward of time.
When it comes to getting round, one of the best ways to go to the wine route is to rent a driver for the day. Ingesting and driving isn’t an amazing concept anyplace on the planet.
To discover a respected driver, you may both ask your resort or Airbnb host or, be part of a day tour which ought to embrace all wine tastings, a tour of the cellar and vineyard, and pick-up and drop-off out of your resort.
Most excursions with Viator, Get Your Guide, and Airbnb Experiences don’t have that many critiques. It doesn’t imply the tour isn’t nice, it’s almost definitely as a result of this area remains to be being found!
Lastly, when you’re truly on the wineries, many have bicycles on provide for you to take pleasure in biking peacefully by way of the vineyards.
You’ll be able to simply go to the wineries in Guanajuato from many cities within the state, together with Guanajuato Metropolis, San Miguel de Allende, León, Dolores Hidalgo and Celaya.
Take pleasure in Guanajuato!
I hope this text helped you resolve which wineries to go to throughout your journey to Guanajuato. Even when you’re not all that into wine, the estates themselves and the eating places are all worthy of a go to.
Depart the cities behind and expertise a day amongst the vines. For extra info on visiting the wine area and different helpful details about the state, take a look on the Guanajuato tourism board web site.
Like This Article? Pin it!
Disclaimer:Goats On The Street is an Amazon Affiliate and likewise an affiliate for another retailers. This implies we earn commissions when you click on hyperlinks on our weblog and buy from these retailers.